Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Always Curious]

I am looking to get a teaching job in Korea and I've received a few offers from recruiters via the internet. I've been offered a contract by a school called Go English Ansan which appears to be the best of the ones I've seen so far.

I'm particularly impressed by the fact they are offering a training period as I'm worried that with no previous experience I could totally flounder in the classroom! Also they mention they follow courses of continuous assessment and development which can only be beneficial. Their bonus scheme looks very generous too.

Any thoughts or advice would be appreciated!

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EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT

The following contract is an employment contract between ______________ to be referred to as the "Instructor" whose passport number is ____________________ and ______________________ whose address is ____________________________________, South Korea to be referred to as the "Institute" from this point forth.

1. Job position
This contract is entered into for the position of an English conversation instructor.

2. Validity of Contract
This contract becomes effective upon the signing of this document by both the Instructor and the Institute. This contract supercedes any and all prior agreements, oral or written, between the parties; any future modifications to this contract must be made in writing by an officer or authorized agent of the Institute with pre-approval by the President of the Institute and executed by the signature of both parties. The Instructor's monthly salary shall commence and count from the first day of his or her teaching (not including any or all periods of training) in accordance with the Institute's schedule.

3. Period of Employment
The Institute from the following dates will employ the Instructor:
FROM: ________________________
TO: ________________________
The period of employment under this contract will last for one calendar year from the date of the Instructor's first day of work for the Institute unless other written contractual agreements have been entered into to amend this time period.

4. Weekly Working Hours
The general operation hours and days of the Institute are Monday thru Friday: 10:00am to 9:30pm (one and half hours break between those hours) and Saturday: 9:00am to 2:30pm ; thus, the Instructor is subject to be scheduled anytime within these hours and days, and occasionally outside of these hours for special assignments (Institute picnics, field trips, examinations, training workshops etc.). These general hours of operation will apply at all times except for public school vacations. During all public school vacations (one month in the summer and one and half months in the winter), all class schedules are subject to change. Except for those vacation days, the institute will keep the same operating schedule. Instructor will arrive one and half hours prior to scheduled teaching time for preparation of class lessons, and will remain on the premises for no less than thirty minutes after the final lesson for any other situations that may arise or require attention. The Institute will attempt to make classroom teaching hours consecutively, but such will depend upon customer demands and Institute's needs. While the Institute will attempt to set a regular schedule for the Instructor, the Institute reserves the right to change this schedule at any time without notice so as to fulfill customer needs and staffing requirements. Instructor will arrive one and half hours prior to scheduled teaching time for preparation of class lessons.

5. Compensation
Transportation: Institute will prepay a one-way ticket (economy class) From Instructor��s residence to Korea��s International airport. In the event that the Instructor has to leave the Institute or seeks a release from this contract less than six months of working with Institute, the Instructor shall be liable for reimbursing to the Institute the airfare that the Institute paid for the Instructor. After finishing six months of the contract, employee will not be responsible for reimbursing the cost of airfare. Institute personnel will also pick up the Instructor from the designated airport and may, upon negotiation, drop off the Instructor at the designated airport upon the completion of the contract.

Salary: A monthly base salary of 1.7 million won will be paid for 135 teaching hours per month. Salary pay is not based on weeks but on months of the calendar year. In the event that the Institute cannot provide employee with 135 teaching hours per month, the Institute will still pay the Instructor the above-mentioned basic salary per month. However, if teaching hours fall below 80 hours per month, the Instructor��s salary will be reduced to 75% of the total. If teaching hours fall below 60 hours per month, the salary will be reduced to 50%. In such a case, however, the Instructor may be required to make English interviews with students who wish to enroll or perform other administrative or maintenance duties in place of teaching hours. Any teaching hours in excess of the above-mentioned monthly hours per month are considered as excess compensation. The excess compensation per hour is 7,000 won.

Payday: The Institute begins pay on the first working day after successful completion of the training period and will pay the previously mentioned salary to the Instructor after one month. The Instructor and Institute can negotiate the payday according to the situation. 200,000 won will be paid to the Instructor in advance when she/he arrives to the Institute and will be deducted from his or her first month's salary if the Instructor should desire such advanced pay for a living.

Severance Pay or End-of-year Bonus: Upon completion of this one-year contract, the Instructor will receive 1800 US dollars, the equivalent of one month��s salary at the end of contract as a bonus or severance pay. However, 1,000,000 won will be withheld to pay for bills that incur after the Instructor��s departure. This deposit is to cover any unpaid monthly service, utility, and telephone charges at the completion of this contract and/or resignation or dismissal of the Instructor before the termination of this contract. The Institute agrees that payment of remaining amounts of the deposit will be made to employee within ten days after all outstanding monthly service, utility, and telephone charges have been paid. When those bills are paid, the remainder of to money will be wire transferred to the bank account chosen by the Instructor. Proof of final bills (receipts) will also be provided via postal mail at the Institute��s expense.

Insurance: A medical & accident insurance plan from an insurance company will be offered to the instructor. The annual premium (current amount is approximately 400,000 won per year) will be split equally between Instructor and Institute if Instructor desires to be covered.

Visa Sponsorship: Institute will get Instructor a one-year E-2 teaching visa and alien card so that he/she may open up a Korean bank account. The Institute will also handle and pay for your teaching visa confirmation paper through the immigration office. The Institute will submit 10 documents to issue your teaching visa paper. Visa application fees and its related expenses in the Instructor��s homeland will be paid at his/her expense.

Taxes: Korean income tax will be deducted from the monthly salary in accordance with the Korean tax law (currently 7-8%).

Holidays and Vacations: The Instructor is entitled to not work during all Korean holidays in addition to 3 summer vacation days and 3 winter vacation days possibly including weekends when the institute is closed. However, the dates of summer vacation may be chosen by a mutual agreement between the Institute and the Instructor. The vacations days may be taken consecutively upon the Instructor��s request.

Sick days: Under Korean Labor Law, the Instructor will be granted four sick days during the contract period. Sick days are to be used for legitimate illness; thus a note from a doctor must be provided. Use of sick days will not result in any pay deductions. In the event that the Instructor does not use his/her sick days, the Institute will pay the Instructor an additional 100,000 won.

Compensation for an accident: As in any other Korean institutes, in the event that the Instructor gets injured from an accident or a mishap that occurs outside the course of normal work duties which are duly prescribed by Institute's policy or regulations, the Institute shall not be legally responsible for, obliged to pay to the Instructor any hospital and medical costs being in excess of those covered by medical insurance which the Institute highly advises the Instructor to obtain. However, it is the moral responsibility for the Institute best help and take good care of the Instructor in the event such accident or a mishap takes place.

6. Housing
Rent-free Accommodations: Institute will provide the Instructor either with a rent-free unshared studio apartment with a kitchen and bathroom or with two bedroom apartment with the foregoing facilities shared with another teacher. The Institute will make every effort to accommodate the Instructor with a studio or apartment within walking distance of the Institute. The Institute will make every effort to accommodate the Instructor with a studio or apartment with a working air-conditioner.

Items included with Accommodations: All the following items are rented, free of charge, to the Instructor by the Institute during this contract period: cooking utensils (fry pan, water-boiling pot, spoons, bowls, plates, forks, etc.), a microwave oven, television set, dining table set, bed, laundry machine, clothes closet, refrigerator, etc.

Items prohibited from Accommodations: All the following items are prohibited from accommodations provided to the Instructor by the Institute: drugs and other illicit substances, pornographic materials and magazines, subversive literatures, condoms, sex aids, animals/pets, explosives, dangerous weapons.

Utility costs: Utility costs (water, gas, electricity, cable TV monthly service charges, and maintenance fees cost approximately 40,000 won per month on average) of the rent-free accommodations and the monthly mobile phone bill will be paid by the Instructor. Cable TV connection with English T.V. channels can be installed for Instructor��s convenience. Internet service is optional and installation must be discussed between the Institute and the Instructor.

Shared Housing: In the event that two Instructors share the two-bedroom apartment together, total apartment utilities shall be paid 50 to 50 equally between the Instructors.

Security Deposit: The Instructor is required to pay a security/damage deposit of 800,000 won which will be deducted in two sums of 400,000 from the Instructor��s first two paydays. Upon the Instructor��s final departure from the accommodation, the Institute will inspect the premises and if the condition of the apartment is satisfactory then the full security deposit balance will be wire transferred to the bank account chosen by the Instructor.

Housing Allowance: Instructor may rent a house or an apartment for himself/herself and get 150,000 won per each Instructor as a housing allowance per month from the Institute.

7. Training Period
All new Instructors will participate in a training period prior to their teaching any classes. The Institute's books, materials, facilities, and equipment will be reviewed and teaching methods will be demonstrated via training and observation. Ongoing training, self and superior evaluations, and workshops/meetings will be held throughout the Instructors employment to ensure the Instructor is most effective. The monthly salary will commence upon successful completion of the training period. The training period is typical a week long. The Instructor will be paid an hourly rate of 4,000 won per hour during training period.

8. Open Door Policy
The Instructor is encouraged in all areas of his or her working relationship with the Institute to offer to the management his or her suggestions and recommendation for the improvement of the Institute and its incentive system. The Institute will observe an ��open door�� policy for suggestions and any complaints or concerns. The Instructor is expected to follow the chain of command in making such suggestions and problems known. If at any level the Instructor is dissatisfied, he or she may then proceed to the next higher level to voice his or her concern, up to the President of The Institute.

9. Instructor's Duties and Responsibilities
A. The Instructor's duty and responsibilities include, but not limited to, the following:
a. Either English as a Second Language (ESL) or English as a Foreign Language (EFL)
instruction in any and all phases of the Institute's program, or its franchise, subsidiary, or other designed location;
b. Preparation for classes;
c. Preparation for 2-week class schedule including a full daily lesson plan and basic back-up lesson plan for each class of which Instructor shall be in charge.
d. Assistance in developing the Institute's educational program and materials;
e. Attendance in developing the teacher's meetings, workshops, training sessions, etc.;
f. After-hours phone tutoring of students, interviewing and evaluating new students, completion of monthly report cards etc
g. Participation in other activities related to any aspect of the business of the Institute.
B. Instructor will set a good positive example of himself/herself and his or her Institute at all times. This includes time spent whilst not at the institute, in particular we take a very dim view of drunken and/or lewd behavior. Furthermore, the Instructor will follow the directions of his/her director. We would also like to extend an invitation to the instructors to join us on Sundays mornings when we attend our local church.
C. Instructor should be in good health and will submit his/her health condition check up list upon arrival of the Institute within a week to the Institute when it may be asked by the Institute (Instructor may have his/her health check up in Korea at a reasonable expense) The Instructor shall not conceal any diseases or epidemic illness which may interfere his/her teaching or which may infect others.
D. Instructor will follow all set class schedules and will not dismiss class early, cancel classes, or start classes late without pre-approval by academic director.
E. Instructor will use teaching materials recommended by the Institute but is encouraged to supplement with other materials. However, these materials must have prior approval by the Institute. Furthermore, all materials given to the Instructor by the Institute will be returned after they are no longer needed.
F. Instructor shall not have his or her hair cut too short. Instructor shall be required to dress in a suit or decent clothes in the class (no shorts, miniskirts, bikinis etc). Instructor shall be required to shower daily and to take great care of oral hygiene. It is important for the Instructor to remember that he or she is, at all times, a representative of the Institute, and to look and behave accordingly. He or she is not to partake in any activities that reflect poorly on or damage the Institute and its reputation, nor are contrary to South Korean public policy or law.
G. Instructor agrees not to partake in the following activities since they may damage the reputation of the school:
a. Conducting class while under the influence of alcohol, smoking, or illegal drugs.
b. Make sexual advances towards, or enter into relationships with students or employees of the school.
c. Conducting lessons which are not consistent with the teachings of the holy bible
d. Conducting any business of accepting any funds on the behalf of the Institute without prior permission from the Institute.
e. Borrowing or lending of funds to students or conducting any sales of items to students.
H. Any damages that are caused by the direct result of Instructor's negligence, either at the Institute or residence, will be paid for such costs by the Instructor. Furthermore, the Instructor will be held liable under Korean Law.
I. If Instructor seeks release from the contract for cultural differences, homesickness or personal problems, he/she will receive only 40% of the agreed upon salary for the time remaining in Korea. Additionally, the Instructor agrees to work until a replacement instructor is positioned.
J. If Instructor fails to conduct himself/herself in a professional manner, resulting in damage to the image of the school, the Institute has the right to terminate this contract, but must provide at least one-week notice to the Instructor. And, if the Institute violates the contract, the Instructor also has the right to terminate the agreement, but a four-week notice must be provided as well. Foremost, it is important to remember that if something unpleasant happens between the Instructor and Institute, it is better talk and understand each other.
K. If Instructor is chronically late without notification, salary may be deducted for the time in which they are late (a typical deduction of 50,000won per hour or part thereof late). Lateness will be judged to include arriving late for preparation time and/or starting classes.

10. Institute Property
The Instructor must return the following items when the contract terminates:
A. All things that the Institute has rented or purchased for the use of the Instructor;
B. All money loaned by the Institute to the Instructor;
C. All the items purchased and provided by the Institute for the Instructor's accommodations. D. All teaching materials and office supplies provided by the Institute.
E. Reference books owned by the Institute.
F. Any other property owned by the Institute.

11. Promotions, Incentives, Pay raises, Bonuses
The Instructor's performance will be evaluated periodically (every two months); at this time his/her compensation level will be reviewed. Exemplary and superior work and effort will be rewarded by an incentive bonus system. Bonuses will be awarded based on overall Institute performance and individual instructor performance. Promotions will be granted based on the Instructor's performance and capacity for additional responsibility. Some important traits and measures of individual performance are: contributing distinctively to the Institute's development, providing useful ideas for better instruction, positive attitude and overall effort, the Instructor's student re-enrollment rate, and comments from students and parents.
In addition, the Instructor will be applicable for a bonus scheme based on student enrolment for the Instructor��s classes. If overall enrolment in Instructor��s classes increases by 50% in any one month, Instructor will be eligible for a bonus of 1,000,000won. If overall enrolment in Instructor��s classes increases by 100% in any one month, Instructor will be eligible for a bonus of 2,000,000 won.

12. Nonclosure and Noncompete Agreement
(Nonclosure)
While still in the employment of the School or after resigning, the Instructor must not make any information public that he or she obtains from the Institute or develops for the Institute. The teaching techniques, books, and materials of the Institute are proprietary and are to be protected as intellectual and copyrighted material.

(Noncompete Agreement)
For a period of 18 months after the signing of this contract, working for a competing school or for private tutorings in the institute��s area is strictly prohibited. This clause still applies even if the instructor is no longer employed by the institute.

13. Termination of Contract
(Termination by Instructor)
Institute recognizes that special circumstances may develop which requires this contract to be amended or terminated prematurely (serious illness or death of immediate family or self, etc.). The Institute will endeavor to accommodate the Instructor's specific needs in such situations, evaluating these needs on a case-by-case basis. If the Instructor's resignation is determined to be voluntary (unilateral and without just cause), the Instructor may be assessed up to 2,000,000won for the costs in recruiting and placing under contract Instructor's replacement, forfeit any accumulated but unpaid salary or bonus, or other incentive pay not yet paid. Institute shall receive the above moneys and use it to cover costs and any other personal costs and debts, any unpaid utilities and phone bills, and any damages the Instructor may have incurred. Any balance remaining will be returned to the Instructor either in person or by mailing. However, if the Instructor has worked more than 6 months under this contract AND gives the Institute at least one month notice of Instructor's intention to leave, the Instructor��s replacement will be responsible for all of the above costs, excluding Instructor's replacement cost. By signing this contract, Instructor certifies that he or she has every intention of fulfilling his or her obligation for the duration of the contract and that there is no reason that he or she should not be able to enter into such a contract.

(Termination by Institute)
This contract cannot be broken by the Institute without just cause, which includes, but is not limited to the following situations; when the Instructor is found to be in breach of the contract or is involved in a scandal that may tarnish the reputation of the Institute, Instructor's possession or use of illegal and/or illicit substances, excessive (unexcused) absenteeism and/or tardiness, and when the Institute concludes that the Instructor cannot perform class activities, has a poor attitude, or lacks the qualities necessary to be an effective instructor.
The Instructor's employment cannot be terminated by the Institute without the Instructor being duly warned about his or her poor performance and/or attitude, and given the opportunity to remedy the problem, unless the Instructor's performance and/or behavior are deemed particularly egregious such that immediate termination is necessary in order to save the Institute's reputation and business standing. Of course if it is deemed that Instructor intentionally (via blatant disregard for the rules or well-being of the Institute) forces the Institute to terminate Instructor's employment in an effort to avoid reimbursing the Institute for the costs of securing a replacement for the Instructor, then the Institute may assume that the Instructor has voluntarily terminated the contract and thus may impose these and the other penalties noted under "Termination by Instructor".
When the Institute intends to dismiss the Instructor, the Institute shall give the worker a notice of dismissal at least thirty days in advance of such dismissal provided that this shall not apply in case where a natural disaster, calamity, or other unavoidable circumstances has occurred or when the Instructor has intentionally caused a considerable hindrance to the business or inflicted any damage to property.
The Institute will pay for instructor��s return airfare if the employment termination should be done by contractual violation by the institute, bankruptcy, or school closure.

(Discipline and Penalties)
The Institute reserves the right to utilize the full range of disciplinary measures as allowed under Korean law if the Instructor violates the contract, damages the reputation of the Institute, or fails to perform adequately. These rights include, but are not limited to: warning and counseling, freeze on pay raises, revocation of previous pay raises, removal from current position and dismissal.

14. Renewal of Contract
The Institute and the Instructor may jointly agree to renew the contract for the period of one year or other mutually agreed time period. The Teacher shall notify the Institute if his or her intent is such not less than sixty days prior to the termination of the contract.

15. Governing Laws and Jurisdictions
This contract shall be interpreted according to the internal (domestic) laws of the Republic of Korea. The competent court in Seoul, South Korea, shall have jurisdiction in regard to any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with this contract.
Both parties have read the above conditions and agree to the terms in good faith and will attempt to resolve any dispute in a reasonable manner. All decisions that cannot be resolved by the two parties above will be solved in accordance to Korean Civil Law.

DATE: _____________ INSTRUCTOR'S SIGNATURE: __________________________

DATE: ____________ DIRECTOR'S SIGNATURE: _____________________

[Wangja]

No condoms allowed in the accommodation?

Well, don't *beep* me.

(Seriosuly, Grotto will be along soon).

[plato's republic]

Doesn't sound too appealing even if it's your first job in Korea. 1.7Mil for 135 hours of teaching per month isn't worth it if you ask me. Plus you are required to work outside of normal working hours and they cut your monthly pay if your hours fall below the minimum.
Not forgetting that they are open for business from 10.00am-9.30pm and even on saturdays. You could find yourself working a six-day week for a measly wage.
Can the offer. Find another job.

[livinginkorea]

I agrees with plato's republic here. You can esily find a better job. My first job I had 30 hours a week (but they always gave me 26 or 27) and I got 1.8. I never have worked Saturdays. That's kinda the lowest that I've ever been offered so try and at least get that!!

On the plus side Ansan isn't to far from Seoul and I saw a lot of jobs posted on the net for Ansan last week or so. Don't worry about this job and try for another one.

Good luck!!

[kprrok]

[Freezer Burn]

First they are taking away 400,000 a month for two months, which usually you can get down to 200,000 a month for three, 400 is a lot when you are setting yourself up and then they want to take 1,000,000 at the end of your contract to pay for any additional expenses and then send you the rest back, it's highly unlikely you will see that money again.
You have to work 135 hours a month thats too many hours for 1.7, once the take you tax and pension plus health insurance and 400 a month you will only get around 1.1mil to live on for the first two months, trust me you will spend alot more in the first month.
Prepaying a one way ticket will work if they have an ongoing ticket to Japan, if you get your visa before you leave then that will be ok, but if you are doing the visa run you have to have an ongoing ticket.
Overtime is only 7000 won an hour, and you are working on a monthly hour schedule.
Theres too much to protect the school and not enough to protect you, you cant have porn mags in the bedroom why is it any of there business to begin with, one thing ESL teachers here will tell you is DONT let the school get involved in your private life, its none of their business.

Don't take this contrat, where are you from, if you are from Canada or America, you will ge a better contract.

[just because]

Yeah...i agree with the other people here....

Don't even give this one a second thought....

[Hater Depot]

They've straight up told you their regular hours amount to 11.5 hours per day, plus you have to show up 1.5 hours early and stay 30 minutes after. Then if you get overtime it's for a lousy $7 bucks an hour. Your base salary is $300 bucks below average, your severance bonus $200 so; your director has plenty of discretion over downward adjustments of both. Not to mention the apparent ease with which you can be fired.

This all you need to know. For the love of everything holy don't sign.

I don't know whether to laugh or cry. Not only are you to be assigned plenty of non-compensated work outside of class--meetings, writing their curriculum, interviews, phone lessons--but just think about what red flags these are:

[Grotto]

The following contract is an employment contract between ______________ to be referred to as the "Instructor" whose passport number is ____________________ and ______________________ whose address is ____________________________________, South Korea to be referred to as the "Institute" from this point forth.

1. Job position
This contract is entered into for the position of an English conversation instructor.

2. Validity of Contract
This contract becomes effective upon the signing of this document by both the Instructor and the Institute. This contract supercedes any and all prior agreements, oral or written, between the parties; any future modifications to this contract must be made in writing by an officer or authorized agent of the Institute with pre-approval by the President of the Institute and executed by the signature of both parties. The Instructor's monthly salary shall commence and count from the first day of his or her teaching (not including any or all periods of training) in accordance with the Institute's schedule.

Arent you in violation of your E2 visa if you are 'training'?

3. Period of Employment
The Institute from the following dates will employ the Instructor:
FROM: ________________________
TO: ________________________
The period of employment under this contract will last for one calendar year from the date of the Instructor's first day of work for the Institute unless other written contractual agreements have been entered into to amend this time period.

4. Weekly Working Hours
The general operation hours and days of the Institute are Monday thru Friday: 10:00am to 9:30pm (one and half hours break between those hours) and Saturday: 9:00am to 2:30pm ; thus, the Instructor is subject to be scheduled anytime within these hours and days, and occasionally outside of these hours for special assignments (Institute picnics, field trips, examinations, training workshops etc.). These general hours of operation will apply at all times except for public school vacations. During all public school vacations (one month in the summer and one and half months in the winter), all class schedules are subject to change. Except for those vacation days, the institute will keep the same operating schedule. Instructor will arrive one and half hours prior to scheduled teaching time for preparation of class lessons, and will remain on the premises for no less than thirty minutes after the final lesson for any other situations that may arise or require attention. The Institute will attempt to make classroom teaching hours consecutively, but such will depend upon customer demands and Institute's needs. While the Institute will attempt to set a regular schedule for the Instructor, the Institute reserves the right to change this schedule at any time without notice so as to fulfill customer needs and staffing requirements. Instructor will arrive one and half hours prior to scheduled teaching time for preparation of class lessons.

LMFAO. This is by far the stupidest and most insane scheduling and time requirement I have ever seen. This is enough to turn the job down right here. 12 hour days.. go fornicate yourselves!

5. Compensation
Transportation: Institute will prepay a one-way ticket (economy class) From Instructor��s residence to Korea��s International airport. In the event that the Instructor has to leave the Institute or seeks a release from this contract less than six months of working with Institute, the Instructor shall be liable for reimbursing to the Institute the airfare that the Institute paid for the Instructor. After finishing six months of the contract, employee will not be responsible for reimbursing the cost of airfare. Institute personnel will also pick up the Instructor from the designated airport and may, upon negotiation, drop off the Instructor at the designated airport upon the completion of the contract.

Salary: A monthly base salary of 1.7 million won will be paid for 135 teaching hours per month. Salary pay is not based on weeks but on months of the calendar year. In the event that the Institute cannot provide employee with 135 teaching hours per month, the Institute will still pay the Instructor the above-mentioned basic salary per month.

Very low pay for way too many hours! IMHO! It is easy to find a contract for 2.0 120 hours or even 2.2.

However, if teaching hours fall below 80 hours per month, the Instructor��s salary will be reduced to 75% of the total. If teaching hours fall below 60 hours per month, the salary will be reduced to 50%. In such a case, however, the Instructor may be required to make English interviews with students who wish to enroll or perform other administrative or maintenance duties in place of teaching hours.

So you only get paid for 'teaching hours' and they expect you to sit around the institute for free or even at lower wages BABO! BABO YA!

Any teaching hours in excess of the above-mentioned monthly hours per month are considered as excess compensation. The excess compensation per hour is 7,000 won.

Woohoo 7,000 won an hour grandma can get that hip replacement she always wanted

Payday: The Institute begins pay on the first working day after successful completion of the training period and will pay the previously mentioned salary to the Instructor after one month. The Instructor and Institute can negotiate the payday according to the situation. 200,000 won will be paid to the Instructor in advance when she/he arrives to the Institute and will be deducted from his or her first month's salary if the Instructor should desire such advanced pay for a living.

Severance Pay or End-of-year Bonus: Upon completion of this one-year contract, the Instructor will receive 1800 US dollars, the equivalent of one month��s salary at the end of contract as a bonus or severance pay. However, 1,000,000 won will be withheld to pay for bills that incur after the Instructor��s departure.

LOL another gem why would they need to withhold a million won? IF you have reciepts from your bills they shouldnt withhold anything. In any case one million won is an excessive amount to withhold!
This deposit is to cover any unpaid monthly service, utility, and telephone charges at the completion of this contract and/or resignation or dismissal of the Instructor before the termination of this contract. The Institute agrees that payment of remaining amounts of the deposit will be made to employee within ten days after all outstanding monthly service, utility, and telephone charges have been paid. When those bills are paid, the remainder of to money will be wire transferred to the bank account chosen by the Instructor. Proof of final bills (receipts) will also be provided via postal mail at the Institute��s expense.

Righhhhtttt Sure they will

Insurance: A medical & accident insurance plan from an insurance company will be offered to the instructor. The annual premium (current amount is approximately 400,000 won per year) will be split equally between Instructor and Institute if Instructor desires to be covered.

Visa Sponsorship: Institute will get Instructor a one-year E-2 teaching visa and alien card so that he/she may open up a Korean bank account.

All you need is your passport to open a bank account.

The Institute will also handle and pay for your teaching visa confirmation paper through the immigration office. The Institute will submit 10 documents to issue your teaching visa paper. Visa application fees and its related expenses in the Instructor��s homeland will be paid at his/her expense.

Taxes: Korean income tax will be deducted from the monthly salary in accordance with the Korean tax law (currently 7-8%).

Lies! Tax on 1.7 mil should be 16,630 per month. That is a hell of a lot less than 7-8%!

Holidays and Vacations: The Instructor is entitled to not work during all Korean holidays in addition to 3 summer vacation days and 3 winter vacation days possibly including weekends when the institute is closed.

Wooohhooooo 3 days off possible including a weekend...yippee!

However, the dates of summer vacation may be chosen by a mutual agreement between the Institute and the Instructor. The vacations days may be taken consecutively upon the Instructor��s request.

Sick days: Under Korean Labor Law, the Instructor will be granted four sick days during the contract period. Sick days are to be used for legitimate illness; thus a note from a doctor must be provided. Use of sick days will not result in any pay deductions. In the event that the Instructor does not use his/her sick days, the Institute will pay the Instructor an additional 100,000 won.

Compensation for an accident: As in any other Korean institutes, in the event that the Instructor gets injured from an accident or a mishap that occurs outside the course of normal work duties which are duly prescribed by Institute's policy or regulations, the Institute shall not be legally responsible for, obliged to pay to the Instructor any hospital and medical costs being in excess of those covered by medical insurance which the Institute highly advises the Instructor to obtain. However, it is the moral responsibility for the Institute best help and take good care of the Instructor in the event such accident or a mishap takes place.

6. Housing
Rent-free Accommodations: Institute will provide the Instructor either with a rent-free unshared studio apartment with a kitchen and bathroom or with two bedroom apartment with the foregoing facilities shared with another teacher. The Institute will make every effort to accommodate the Instructor with a studio or apartment within walking distance of the Institute. The Institute will make every effort to accommodate the Instructor with a studio or apartment with a working air-conditioner.

Items included with Accommodations: All the following items are rented, free of charge, to the Instructor by the Institute during this contract period: cooking utensils (fry pan, water-boiling pot, spoons, bowls, plates, forks, etc.), a microwave oven, television set, dining table set, bed, laundry machine, clothes closet, refrigerator, etc.

Items prohibited from Accommodations: All the following items are prohibited from accommodations provided to the Instructor by the Institute: drugs and other illicit substances, pornographic materials and magazines, subversive literatures, condoms, sex aids, animals/pets, explosives, dangerous weapons.

condoms and sex aids...oh my

Utility costs: Utility costs (water, gas, electricity, cable TV monthly service charges, and maintenance fees cost approximately 40,000 won per month on average) of the rent-free accommodations and the monthly mobile phone bill will be paid by the Instructor. Cable TV connection with English T.V. channels can be installed for Instructor��s convenience. Internet service is optional and installation must be discussed between the Institute and the Instructor.

Shared Housing: In the event that two Instructors share the two-bedroom apartment together, total apartment utilities shall be paid 50 to 50 equally between the Instructors.

Security Deposit: The Instructor is required to pay a security/damage deposit of 800,000 won which will be deducted in two sums of 400,000 from the Instructor��s first two paydays. Upon the Instructor��s final departure from the accommodation, the Institute will inspect the premises and if the condition of the apartment is satisfactory then the full security deposit balance will be wire transferred to the bank account chosen by the Instructor.

WOW so they want 800,000won as a deposit and they withhold another million at the end of the contract...hmmmm do they actually plan on paying a severance package?

Housing Allowance: Instructor may rent a house or an apartment for himself/herself and get 150,000 won per each Instructor as a housing allowance per month from the Institute.

That is very low...standard is 300,000 won a month

7. Training Period
All new Instructors will participate in a training period prior to their teaching any classes. The Institute's books, materials, facilities, and equipment will be reviewed and teaching methods will be demonstrated via training and observation. Ongoing training, self and superior evaluations, and workshops/meetings will be held throughout the Instructors employment to ensure the Instructor is most effective. The monthly salary will commence upon successful completion of the training period. The training period is typical a week long. The Instructor will be paid an hourly rate of 4,000 won per hour during training period.

LOL 4$ an hour Take this job and shove it>>>theres no way anyone should work here!

8. Open Door Policy
The Instructor is encouraged in all areas of his or her working relationship with the Institute to offer to the management his or her suggestions and recommendation for the improvement of the Institute and its incentive system. The Institute will observe an ��open door�� policy for suggestions and any complaints or concerns. The Instructor is expected to follow the chain of command in making such suggestions and problems known. If at any level the Instructor is dissatisfied, he or she may then proceed to the next higher level to voice his or her concern, up to the President of The Institute.

9. Instructor's Duties and Responsibilities
A. The Instructor's duty and responsibilities include, but not limited to, the following:
a. Either English as a Second Language (ESL) or English as a Foreign Language (EFL)
instruction in any and all phases of the Institute's program, or its franchise, subsidiary, or other designed location;

Not that anyone would take this crap job but they would need immigrations permission for secondary worksites.

b. Preparation for classes;
c. Preparation for 2-week class schedule including a full daily lesson plan and basic back-up lesson plan for each class of which Instructor shall be in charge.

Ahhh so there is no set curriculum? 2 lesson plans per class

d. Assistance in developing the Institute's educational program and materials;
e. Attendance in developing the teacher's meetings, workshops, training sessions, etc.;
f. After-hours phone tutoring of students, interviewing and evaluating new students, completion of monthly report cards etc

No thanks...so you only get paid for in class time, you have to be there 12 hours a day, 6 days a week and you only get paid 1.7.....umm no I would rather do a trip to the dentist without any freezing!
g. Participation in other activities related to any aspect of the business of the Institute.
B. Instructor will set a good positive example of himself/herself and his or her Institute at all times. This includes time spent whilst not at the institute, in particular we take a very dim view of drunken and/or lewd behavior.

Damn they must really hate ajoshi's then!

Furthermore, the Instructor will follow the directions of his/her director. We would also like to extend an invitation to the instructors to join us on Sundays mornings when we attend our local church.

RUN RUN FOR THE HILLS ITS RELIGIOUS NUTJOBS!!!!!

C. Instructor should be in good health and will submit his/her health condition check up list upon arrival of the Institute within a week to the Institute when it may be asked by the Institute (Instructor may have his/her health check up in Korea at a reasonable expense) The Instructor shall not conceal any diseases or epidemic illness which may interfere his/her teaching or which may infect others.
D. Instructor will follow all set class schedules and will not dismiss class early, cancel classes, or start classes late without pre-approval by academic director.
E. Instructor will use teaching materials recommended by the Institute but is encouraged to supplement with other materials. However, these materials must have prior approval by the Institute. Furthermore, all materials given to the Instructor by the Institute will be returned after they are no longer needed.
F. Instructor shall not have his or her hair cut too short. Instructor shall be required to dress in a suit or decent clothes in the class (no shorts, miniskirts, bikinis etc).

No bikinis thats it...I was gonna steal the job from you but now that I cant wear my bikini forget about it!

Instructor shall be required to shower daily and to take great care of oral hygiene. It is important for the Instructor to remember that he or she is, at all times, a representative of the Institute, and to look and behave accordingly. He or she is not to partake in any activities that reflect poorly on or damage the Institute and its reputation, nor are contrary to South Korean public policy or law.
G. Instructor agrees not to partake in the following activities since they may damage the reputation of the school:
a. Conducting class while under the influence of alcohol, smoking, or illegal drugs.
b. Make sexual advances towards, or enter into relationships with students or employees of the school.
c. Conducting lessons which are not consistent with the teachings of the holy bible

What you taught evolution OUT you spawn of Satan! OUT WE SAY

d. Conducting any business of accepting any funds on the behalf of the Institute without prior permission from the Institute.
e. Borrowing or lending of funds to students or conducting any sales of items to students.
H. Any damages that are caused by the direct result of Instructor's negligence, either at the Institute or residence, will be paid for such costs by the Instructor. Furthermore, the Instructor will be held liable under Korean Law.
I. If Instructor seeks release from the contract for cultural differences, homesickness or personal problems, he/she will receive only 40% of the agreed upon salary for the time remaining in Korea. Additionally, the Instructor agrees to work until a replacement instructor is positioned.

No, it would be called a midnight run.....RUN LUKE RUN(disembodied voice of Obi Wan ringing through your mind )

J. If Instructor fails to conduct himself/herself in a professional manner, resulting in damage to the image of the school, the Institute has the right to terminate this contract, but must provide at least one-week notice to the Instructor. And, if the Institute violates the contract, the Instructor also has the right to terminate the agreement, but a four-week notice must be provided as well. Foremost, it is important to remember that if something unpleasant happens between the Instructor and Institute, it is better talk and understand each other.

LOL you pissed us off! You are out of here in one week! You are angry with us oooh well you must stay until we find a replacement at least a month RUN LUKE RUN!

K. If Instructor is chronically late without notification, salary may be deducted for the time in which they are late (a typical deduction of 50,000won per hour or part thereof late). Lateness will be judged to include arriving late for preparation time and/or starting classes.

LMFAO...50,000 won an hour deduction You are only making about 12,592 an hour at the paltry salary they are paying you...isnt it illegal to deduct more than you make as a punishment? RUN LUKE RUN!

10. Institute Property
The Instructor must return the following items when the contract terminates:
A. All things that the Institute has rented or purchased for the use of the Instructor;
B. All money loaned by the Institute to the Instructor;
C. All the items purchased and provided by the Institute for the Instructor's accommodations. D. All teaching materials and office supplies provided by the Institute.
E. Reference books owned by the Institute.
F. Any other property owned by the Institute.

11. Promotions, Incentives, Pay raises, Bonuses
The Instructor's performance will be evaluated periodically (every two months); at this time his/her compensation level will be reviewed. Exemplary and superior work and effort will be rewarded by an incentive bonus system. Bonuses will be awarded based on overall Institute performance and individual instructor performance. Promotions will be granted based on the Instructor's performance and capacity for additional responsibility. Some important traits and measures of individual performance are: contributing distinctively to the Institute's development, providing useful ideas for better instruction, positive attitude and overall effort, the Instructor's student re-enrollment rate, and comments from students and parents.
In addition, the Instructor will be applicable for a bonus scheme based on student enrolment for the Instructor��s classes. If overall enrolment in Instructor��s classes increases by 50% in any one month, Instructor will be eligible for a bonus of 1,000,000won. If overall enrolment in Instructor��s classes increases by 100% in any one month, Instructor will be eligible for a bonus of 2,000,000 won.

12. Nonclosure and Noncompete Agreement
(Nonclosure)
While still in the employment of the School or after resigning, the Instructor must not make any information public that he or she obtains from the Institute or develops for the Institute. The teaching techniques, books, and materials of the Institute are proprietary and are to be protected as intellectual and copyrighted material.

(Noncompete Agreement)
For a period of 18 months after the signing of this contract, working for a competing school or for private tutorings in the institute��s area is strictly prohibited. This clause still applies even if the instructor is no longer employed by the institute.

LOL RUN FORREST RUN

13. Termination of Contract
(Termination by Instructor)
Institute recognizes that special circumstances may develop which requires this contract to be amended or terminated prematurely (serious illness or death of immediate family or self, etc.). The Institute will endeavor to accommodate the Instructor's specific needs in such situations, evaluating these needs on a case-by-case basis. If the Instructor's resignation is determined to be voluntary (unilateral and without just cause), the Instructor may be assessed up to 2,000,000won for the costs in recruiting and placing under contract Instructor's

These guys are living in a dream world!

replacement, forfeit any accumulated but unpaid salary or bonus, or other incentive pay not yet paid. Institute shall receive the above moneys and use it to cover costs and any other personal costs and debts, any unpaid utilities and phone bills, and any damages the Instructor may have incurred. Any balance remaining will be returned to the Instructor either in person or by mailing. However, if the Instructor has worked more than 6 months under this contract AND gives the Institute at least one month notice of Instructor's intention to leave, the Instructor��s replacement will be responsible for all of the above costs, excluding Instructor's replacement cost. By signing this contract, Instructor certifies that he or she has every intention of fulfilling his or her obligation for the duration of the contract and that there is no reason that he or she should not be able to enter into such a contract.

A reason not to enter into this contract...hmmmm? Sanity?

(Termination by Institute)
This contract cannot be broken by the Institute without just cause, which includes, but is not limited to the following situations; when the Instructor is found to be in breach of the contract or is involved in a scandal that may tarnish the reputation of the Institute, Instructor's possession or use of illegal and/or illicit substances, excessive (unexcused) absenteeism and/or tardiness, and when the Institute concludes that the Instructor cannot perform class activities, has a poor attitude, or lacks the qualities necessary to be an effective instructor.

How could you have anything but a poor attitude working for these hayseeds?

The Instructor's employment cannot be terminated by the Institute without the Instructor being duly warned about his or her poor performance and/or attitude, and given the opportunity to remedy the problem, unless the Instructor's performance and/or behavior are deemed particularly egregious such that immediate termination is necessary in order to save the Institute's reputation and business standing. Of course if it is deemed that Instructor intentionally (via blatant disregard for the rules or well-being of the Institute) forces the Institute to terminate Instructor's employment in an effort to avoid reimbursing the Institute for the costs of securing a replacement for the Instructor, then the Institute may assume that the Instructor has voluntarily terminated the contract and thus may impose these and the other penalties noted under "Termination by Instructor".
When the Institute intends to dismiss the Instructor, the Institute shall give the worker a notice of dismissal at least thirty days in advance of such dismissal provided that this shall not apply in case where a natural disaster, calamity, or other unavoidable circumstances has occurred or when the Instructor has intentionally caused a considerable hindrance to the business or inflicted any damage to property.
The Institute will pay for instructor��s return airfare if the employment termination should be done by contractual violation by the institute, bankruptcy, or school closure.

(Discipline and Penalties)
The Institute reserves the right to utilize the full range of disciplinary measures as allowed under Korean law if the Instructor violates the contract, damages the reputation of the Institute, or fails to perform adequately. These rights include, but are not limited to: warning and counseling, freeze on pay raises, revocation of previous pay raises, removal from current position and dismissal.

14. Renewal of Contract
The Institute and the Instructor may jointly agree to renew the contract for the period of one year or other mutually agreed time period. The Teacher shall notify the Institute if his or her intent is such not less than sixty days prior to the termination of the contract.

15. Governing Laws and Jurisdictions
This contract shall be interpreted according to the internal (domestic) laws of the Republic of Korea. The competent court in Seoul, South Korea, shall have jurisdiction in regard to any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with this contract.
Both parties have read the above conditions and agree to the terms in good faith and will attempt to resolve any dispute in a reasonable manner. All decisions that cannot be resolved by the two parties above will be solved in accordance to Korean Civil Law.

DATE: _____________ INSTRUCTOR'S SIGNATURE: __________________________

DATE: ____________ DIRECTOR'S SIGNATURE: _____________________

Just say no to stupidity!

[Always Curious]

Wow, thanks for all the pointers above everyone.

The bonuses did sound very appealing though and that's what's tempting me to go with this. The recruiter said that I probably wouldn't be teaching the full number of hours or would be coming to class at opening hours.

I was impressed by the number of eventualities covered in the contract and assumed it was because they were very professional in their setup as some of the contracts I've seen looked rather scant in detail about what I'd be doing.

This one is too much in favor of the school?

[Wangja]

[livinginkorea]

Yes it's way too much in favour of the school and they are trying to screw you big time!! Do yourself a favour and don't take the job. There are better ones out there. Believe me you will thank us all later!!

[Grotto]

Rule #1: never work for church people...they will screw you seven ways from Sunday and try to guilt you into doing your duty as they percieve it!

[plato's republic]

The OP sounds a little too gullible for me...are you for real?? You liked the bonuses!!!??? WTF!
This is a Sh**** contract with a capital S.
Find another job dude.
They are gonna take you to the cleaners if you sign on with this and don't listen to the recruiter, he just wants his commission.

[hari seldon]

That's got to be one of the shittiest contracts ever posted here.